“For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, 

that he has chosen you because our gospel came to you 

not simply with words but also with power, 

with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction.” 

(1 Thess 1:4-5) 

In the last few days, we have seen how Jesus remained faithful to his ministry despite increasing antagonism. Jesus was able to do this because he remained one with God the Father. As Christians, we are called to remain one with God as we negotiate our way through life. Jesus promised before ascending to heaven that he would send us a helper to do this, and so it is that we have the Holy Spirit to guide us. 

So, how do we know if we are in union with God?

It is a sound spiritual practice to reflect regularly on our thoughts, words and deeds, noticing what is happening within ourselves. What areas in our lives are moving towards greater faith, hope and love, which indicates we are turning towards God? And what areas are moving away from faith, hope and love, suggesting that we are turning away from God?

Today, we look at a few ways of discerning whether we live intentionally focused on God. You may wish to choose one of these for your prayer time over the coming days:

You may reflect on your life through the words and wisdom of scripture.

As you read your chosen text, is a particular word or phrase catching your attention? What is it saying to you, or what is it stirring within you as you read? Give this living word space in your prayer, allowing God to speak with you about what is catching your attention. Ask God for the grace you need to respond to this.

Another way to reflect is to notice the “fruits” of how you have been living.

You may wish to remember when you and others have experienced love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness or self-control. Spend time thanking God for these fruits of the Holy Spirit and ask for the grace to continue living this fruitful way.

You may be experiencing that prayer and reflection is difficult. If you are experiencing dryness in your prayer where nothing seems to come or feeling too exhausted to apply your senses, it does not necessarily mean you have turned away from God. The fact that you are reading this and considering how to connect with God means you are turned towards God.

Think of one simple word, e.g. Jesus or love, and gently whisper it to yourself repeatedly until you feel yourself settling into a quieter inner place, resting with God. Let the Holy Spirit minister to you at this time. 

Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe

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